Player Evaluations: England Triumph Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier

Throughout a impressive showing, the English national team wrapped up one more win versus their opponents, with a number of players turning in standout performances on the pitch.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform in the first half until forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten

The debutant Examined against the opposition's biggest threat in Hoxha. Operated through the middle initially then shifted to the flank after Saka was introduced. 7/10

John Stones Moved up the pitch with the ball at his feet, something he's known for before. Sometimes was too casual when carrying play and the approach discontinued at half-time. 6/10

Dan Burn Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, typically, but may be a replacement for Stones in the backline instead of paired with him. One wayward pass in the second half came close to an opener from the visitors. Six

The young full-back One more assured performance from the youngster following his initial appearance against Serbia. Saka was unable to take the most of a clever touch behind their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his at this stage. Seven

The newcomer His first start for his country. Slightly careless on the ball however his dangerous deliveries were a threat. A useful tempo-setter for the manager to have against teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed foul. Six

Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and free-kicks caused problems. Had freedom to roam on the left only to be in an offside position as the pass came in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned rest after an hour. 6

Jude Bellingham Operated in a forward role on the right and also did plenty of the hard yards. Showed moments of class but mishit an attempt over. Withdrawn late on for a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. Seven

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening in the opening period, his shot well saved from Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate holding position, it fell to him to offer an outlet out wide although his balls into the box were hit and miss. Taken off late in the match. 6

The captain The match-winner scoring 77th and 78th strikes in an England shirt. The first a trademark opportunist's goal and the second an excellent headed goal following a clever run from his marker. Now 32, he continues to improve and England have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8/10

The attacker Struggled to make an impact from the left. Had a presentable chance when set up by Bellingham however the keeper kept it out. Rashford produced a bigger effect in his place. Five

Replacements

  • Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Appeared sharp and linked up effectively with the striker in a natural spot, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances but his corner led to the breakthrough, 6
  • Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively when brought on assisting the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
  • Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established already, 6
  • Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, Six
Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson

A tech strategist with over a decade of experience in digital innovation and enterprise solutions.

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